Blue Spark: The Innovation Sandbox
Join us to celebrate the launch of Blue Spark during Tech Week!
Developing the Next Wave of West Michigan Entrepreneurs
Blue Spark is a place where entrepreneurs will partner with engineering faculty and students to turn ideas into prototypes.
Join us on Wednesday, September 16 for the official unveiling of Blue Spark!
Learn about the philosophy of Blue Spark, hear from entrepreneurs currently working with the Padnos College of Engineering, and tour the equipment and facilities housed in the Shape Corp. Innovation Design Center.
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
5 pm to 7 pm (remarks at 5:30 pm)
Shape Corp. Innovation Design Center
227 Winter Ave. NW,
Grand Rapids, MI
What is Blue Spark?
We hear from entrepreneurs and small companies who often struggle with access to test and adopt new technologies.
Blue Spark is the solution.
Blue Spark provides a makers space where entrepreneurs and small companies can:
- Test and adopt new technologies
- Collaborate with GVSU students and faculty
- Gain access to systems and technology
Housed in the Shape Corp. Innovation Design Center, Blue Spark will be the place where learning, invention, and community prosperity intersect, a space where curiosity is cultivated, collaboration is expected, and ideas become tangible benefits for the world.
The problems of today and tomorrow will be solved by those who have both the skills and the thinking to apply their knowledge in a collaborative environment. Blue Spark will be home to that work and will help create a steady pipeline of startups, licensable technologies, and corporate pilot projects.
Together we can build Michigan's future!
Learn more about the story behind Blue Spark!
Contact Us
If you'd like to learn more about how Blue Spark can provide support for your work, contact us at [email protected].